DENVER (March 9, 2017) —The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC), a division of the Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA), is encouraging natural gas customers, especially those in mountain communities with heavy snowfalls, to keep their gas meters clear of snow and ice to prevent accidents.

“The accumulation of snow and ice on natural gas meters is a safety hazard,” said Joe Molloy, chief of the PUC’s Gas Pipeline Safety Unit. “Snow can block the vents on meters causing a potentially explosive build-up of natural gas that can leak back into the building.”

Damage to natural gas facilities may also result from the impact of snow or ice falling from roofs, ice forming in or on regulators preventing their proper operation, or shoveling snow from roofs to protect dwellings from abnormal snow accumulations.

The problem of melting snow and ice falling on exposed meters will continue through the spring as daytime temperatures rise and then fall below freezing overnight. Customers who notice ice on their meters or are concerned that meter vents may be blocked should contact their local gas utility.

Customers should leave their residences immediately if they detect a gas or propane odor and report the odor to their local gas utility, propane operator or designated emergency response officials.

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About PUC

The Colorado Public Utilities Commission (PUC) serves the public interest by effectively regulating utilities and facilities so that the people of Colorado receive safe, reliable, and reasonably-priced services consistent with the economic, environmental and social values of our state. Visit www.colorado.gov/dora/puc.

About DORA

The Department of Regulatory Agencies (DORA) is dedicated to preserving the integrity of the marketplace and is committed to promoting a fair and competitive business environment in Colorado. Consumer protection is our mission. Visit www.colorado.gov/dora for more information or call 303-894-7855/toll free 1-800-886-7675.